Classic Denver Omelet Recipe

5 from 2 votes

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If you’re a fan of eggs, veggies, and a whole lot of flavor, then you’re in for a treat with my recipe for an Easy Classic Denver Omelet.

Completed Denver Omelet.
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The origins of the Denver omelet can be traced back to the Mile High City itself, Denver, Colorado. Legend has it that this hearty breakfast dish was created by cowboys and miners who wanted a filling and delicious meal to start their day. And boy, did they hit the jackpot with this one!

One of the great things about the Denver omelet is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste buds and dietary preferences. Not a fan of ham? No worries! Swap it out for bacon or sausage. Want to add some extra veggies? Go ahead and throw in some mushrooms, spinach, or tomatoes. The sky’s the limit!

Close up of a finished Denver omelet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • You might wonder, “What exactly is a Denver omelet?” My friend, picture this: a fluffy, golden omelet stuffed with diced ham, sautéed peppers, onions, and ooey-gooey melted cheese. It’s like a breakfast fiesta in your mouth!
  • This quick and tasty recipe can be made with common ingredients you have on hand. Because of the hardy ingredients, it can be served as a complete meal!
  • The Denver Omelet is a breakfast classic that has stood the test of time for good reason. It’s a flavor-packed meal that never disappoints.

Recipe Ingredients

  • Eggs
  • Onion powder
  • Butter
  • Ham
  • Onions – red
  • Bell Pepper – green 
  • Colby Jack 

See the recipe card below for full information on ingredients and quantities.

raw ingredients for a denver omelet.

How to Make Denver Omelet

raw ingredients for a omelet being cooked on the cast iron.
omelet being cooked in the cast iron pan.

Step 1: Melt the butter in a skillet. Add the ham, onion, and bell pepper to the skillet.

Step 2: Pour the whisked eggs over the mixture and let cook.

Denver omelet cooking in a skillet.
cooked denver omelet cut in half to see the cheesy inside.

Step 3: Sprinkle the cheese on one side of the omelet and flip the other side over the cheese.

Step 4: Once cooked, serve and enjoy your delicious Denver omelet!

Recipe FAQs

Can I make a Denver omelet without cheese?

Yes, you can omit the cheese if you prefer or have dietary restrictions. The cheese adds a creamy and melty texture to the omelet, but it’s not a mandatory ingredient. The other flavors and ingredients in the omelet will still provide a delicious and satisfying meal.

What can I serve with a Denver omelet?

A Denver omelet is often served as a complete meal on its own. However, you can pair it with delicious sides to enhance the meal. Sourdough Biscuits, fresh fruit, or a side salad make great accompaniments. For added flavor, you can also top it with salsa, hot sauce, or sour cream.

Can I make a Denver omelet using egg whites only?

Yes, if you prefer egg whites only, you can make a Denver omelet using just the whites. Separate the egg whites from the yolks and whisk them until frothy. Proceed with the recipe, as usual, using the whisked egg whites instead of whole eggs. Remember that the omelet may have a slightly different texture and flavor without the yolks.

Denver omelet cooking in a skillet.

Expert Tips

  • To rewarm cover the omelet in the fridge and microwave for 1 to 2 minutes or in a pan over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes or until warm through.
  • You can use sweet or white onions in this omelet as well as green, red or yellow peppers.
  • You can make a Denver omelet using just the whites if you prefer.
cooked denier omelet cut in half to see the cheesy inside fork with a bite full.

More Breakfast Recipes to Consider

cooked denier omelet cut in half to see the cheesy inside
5 from 2 votes

Denver Omelet Recipe

Originating from Denver, this classic dish is a fluffy omelet filled with ham, peppers, onions, and cheese. It's a delicious way to start your day off right.
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 10 minutes
Total: 20 minutes
Servings: 1

Ingredients 

  • 4 eggs
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • ¼ cup diced ham
  • 3 tablespoons red onions, diced (you can use sweet or white onions)
  • 3 tablespoons diced green bell pepper, you can use red or yellow pepper as well
  • cup Colby Jack, shredded
  • Salt and pepper to taste
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Instructions 

  • In a small mixing bowl, break the eggs, and add the onion powder and salt. Whisk until blended using a fork. Set aside.
  • In a 9-inch skillet, over medium heat, add the butter.
  • Once the butter is melted, add the ham, onion, and bell pepper. Mix and keep cooking until the onions are nice and golden. 3-4 minutes
  • Spread the mixture evenly in the pan
  • Pour the eggs over the mixture and gently spread the eggs even in the pan.
  • Don’t mix and let it cook over medium heat until the top is set, not liquidy. about 5 to 6 minutes
  • While it is cooking, take a knife to release the edge of the eggs.
  • Sprinkle the cheese on one side.
  • Using a spatula, flip the other side over the cheese.
  • Let it cook for one additional minute.
  • Serve and Enjoy!

Notes

  • This is a very common recipe with common ingredients. The key to this recipe is being patient after you pour the eggs and allow them to cook thoroughly. Don’t put the heat too high, as it will burn before it is cooked, and too low, as it will take longer to cook.
  • If you are making a 3-egg omelet, I suggest using a 7—or 8-inch pan. A 9-inch pan would be thinner.
  • Side dish: Serve with English muffins, toasts, or a cup of fruits, or try this Baked Denver Omelet!
  • Storage: The omelet will keep in the fridge for 2 days

Nutrition

Serving: 1omelet, Calories: 570kcal, Carbohydrates: 6g, Protein: 38g, Fat: 43g, Saturated Fat: 22g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g, Monounsaturated Fat: 13g, Trans Fat: 1g, Cholesterol: 742mg, Sodium: 1560mg, Potassium: 351mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 3g, Vitamin A: 1738IU, Vitamin C: 2mg, Calcium: 413mg, Iron: 4mg
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